Swiss Bernese Mt. Dog

The Swiss Bernese Mt. Dog shares all of the positive characteristics of his parents. The Bernese Mountain Dogs and the Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs are large, loyal, intelligent, and loving. It is believed that both breeds originated 2,000 years ago when Rome invaded what is now known as Switzerland. The Mastiff dogs of war that were bred by the Romans and used during their battles bred with the local flock-herding dogs of the Alps. The result of the intermingling created a tough dog that could easily withstand the adverse weather conditions found in the mountains of Switzerland. Unfortunately, the two breeds almost become extinct. However, in the 1900s, some dog enthusiasts started to work to restore the dogs of Switzerland. As the breeds were reestablished, their popularity spread across Europe and eventually even Americans started recognizing the dogs. They were used as draft dogs, drovers, and farm guard dogs. Both breeds excel at pulling small carts. They also make exceptional family dogs that have always been historically adored by their families. The two breeds look almost identical but the Bernese Mountain Dog has longer hair and Greater Swiss Mountain Dog tends to be a little bit more hyper. For many years, people thought the dogs were the same but recent scientific testing has revealed that they are two distinct breeds. The Bernese Mountain Dog was officially recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1937 and categorized in the Working Group. In 1985, the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog was recognized by the American Kennel Club and placed in the Miscellaneous Group.